When you work in practical conservation, it's not often that you get to put your glad rags on and dress up for the evening, but last month (19 November) a group of us who work at
NWT Pigneys Wood - and many other sites near North Walsham - could be seen in suits and dresses for a change!
The occasion was the prestigious CPRE Norfolk Awards for 2018, held in the beautiful surroundings of the Hostry at Norwich Cathedral. We were welcomed with wine and sandwiches, and had a chance to look round the artworks on display in the gallery.
Lake at Pigneys Wood
To our surprise our hosts CPRE (the Campaign to Protect Rural England) had made up a banner
showcasing our achievements.
We had been nominated for the Thriving Countryside Award - we were a bit worried when we saw that some of our 'rivals' (fellow conservationists also doing a great job!) had some very appealing highland cattle at their site, but we were absolutely delighted when we realised that we were the overall winners.
I am so proud of all the volunteers, although especial mention should probably go to Damon, who has made some wonderful signs for Honing station (another site we work at) in the style of the old M&GN railway.
It was fantastic to be recognised at a county-wide level, and we all went home very happy - back to the old working clothes next Wednesday afternoon to get wet and muddy for a good cause again!
Many thanks to CPRE fore a great evening, to the Heritage Lottery Fund for supporting the initiative, and to all our partners and volunteers.
Click here to join our 'award-winning' team!
Mark Webster, Project Officer